2010 Proposed Dietary Guidelines Target Obesity

The issue of America’s rising obesity rates is one of the driving factors behind newly proposed 2010 Dietary Guidelines that suggest reductions in sodium, sugary drinks and saturated fats among others. The report was released earlier this week by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, a 13-member board of scientists and nutritionists.

In addition to physical activity and enhanced nutrition education, the proposed guidelines suggest reducing sodium intake from 2,300 mg/d to 1,500 mg/d, reducing the amount of sugary drinks and beverages, and eating less saturated fat. The guidelines suggest a plant-based diet rich in vegetables, cooked dry beans and peas, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds. The guidelines also suggest eating seafood and low-fat dairy products and moderate amounts of lean meats, poultry and eggs.

The dietary guidelines, which are updated every five years and issued by USDA and the Department of Health and Human Services, are scheduled to be released by Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary Kathleen Sebelius jointly at the end of 2010.

USDA and HHS are requesting public comments on the proposed dietary guidelines. Comments are due by July 8, 2010. Comments can be submitted at www.dietaryguidelines.gov or mailed to Carole Davis, co-executive secretary, Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Room 1034, Alexandria, VA 22302. Individuals who want to provide oral testimony at the July 8 public meeting must register by going to www.dietaryguidelines.gov or by calling Crystal Tyler at (202) 314-4701 prior to 5 p.m. EDT on June 30.

Sources:

* USDA: Public Comment Period Opens on Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Report, Public Meeting Slated for July 8, 2010